791.003/76: Telegram
The Minister in Persia ( Philip ) to the Secretary of State
[Paraphrase]
Teheran
,
March 5, 1928—11
a.m.
[Received 11:40 a.m.]
[Received 11:40 a.m.]
21. Department’s 12, February 28, 6 p.m.
- (1)
- The British Minister here is quarantined with scarlet fever. The Counselor, Mr. Parr, informs me that the British Legation is [Page 690] still waiting for a reply from Teimourtache concerning the 16 points. The last Persian communication on the subject stated that the Government had the suggestions under consideration and would express its views before long. Mr. Parr is of the opinion that Persia may suggest modifications and will decline to incorporate in treaties any reference to judicial advisers or to grant them extensive powers (see my 10, February 8, paragraph 317). He mentioned also the possibility of the Anglo-Persian Oil Company insisting upon some special facilities to administer justice to the company’s many Indian employees in southern Persia.
- (2)
- A report says the German Minister here has already submitted to Persia a tentative draft treaty which embodies an acceptable phrase substituting for the most-favored-nation rights in tariff matters; but this report has not been confirmed by him. He should be informed fully regarding the 16 British suggestions and is apparently trying to complete a treaty prior to May 10. I have received a copy of the 16 British suggestions.
- (3)
- As reflected by Teimourtache, the attitude of the Persian Government to the British and German proposals appears to have been receptive and satisfactory. I gather Persia wishes to complete a treaty with Germany immediately, although, owing to extraneous considerations, possibly it may desire to delay the negotiations with Great Britain. As to the progress of French negotiations, I have no news.
- (4)
- I am of opinion that the intention of the Department to approach Persia regarding a treaty is wise, but that the appearance of associating with British aims should be carefully avoided.
- (5)
- I believe it would be appropriate to suggest the desirability of providing for American religious, medical, and scholastic institutions being recognized.
Philip
- Not printed.↩